2015-09-06 ~ Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Friday, September 11, 2015

Have a Brave September with EVE

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This September, EVE tackles what it takes to have courage – to be a hero to man’s best friend and to disconnect from the modern world in order to save and protect one’s family.

Boston Underdogs stars Stacia Gorgone, who will stop at nothing when it comes to saving dogs. But while her dog rescue, KickAss K9, is growing by leaps and bounds, so are her life's problems. With almost no financial funding, Stacia's inability to say no to a dog in need continually lands her in hot water - putting relationships with her boyfriend, family, and life-long friends in jeopardy. With Boston's St. Patrick's Day parade just around the corner, Stacia has an opportunity to make things right with those closest to her while raising enough money to save more dogs. But her tendency to act with her heart, instead of her head, puts it all at risk. Tune in to Boston Underdogs, premiering on September 16, airing Wednesdays at 9 p.m.

The new series Risking It All follows three average American families who are tired of the demands of the modern world and the way it monopolizes their time and disconnects them from the ones they love. The families move 'off the grid' in search of a simpler way of life, in the hope that it will strengthen their family bond. Catch Risking It All, premiering on September 23, airing Wednesdays at 9 p.m.

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WD, a Western Digital company and a worldwide leader in storage solutions, and Milestone Systems, the security industry leader in video management software, announced today a partnership to deliver video surveillance solutions to businesses and consumers.

Milestone Arcus Surveillance software will be available on WD’s My Cloud Business Series [1] network-attached storage (NAS) systems beginning this month; and is expected to be available on other My Cloud systems, such as the My Cloud Expert Series, in the future.

Milestone Arcus is a video surveillance platform designed to be embedded in hardware devices, such as compatible WD My Cloud NAS systems, to deliver customized, market-ready solutions.

Integration of Milestone Arcus Surveillance software into My Cloud OS enables users to transform their versatile My Cloud Business Series NAS systems into networked video recording systems for their offices or homes. By simply downloading the Milestone Arcus Surveillance software through the My Cloud App Store, users can install up to 16 cameras, with the first two camera licenses free on My Cloud Business Series products. Additional camera licenses will be available at selected WD authorized distributors.

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After making waves in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Okinawa over the past years, The Dive Resort Travel (DRT) Show, the largest international diving and resort expo in Asia Pacific, has finally reached the Philippine shores. Brought in by the LX Development Group, a premier exhibitions organizer based in Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, in partnership with the Philippine Department of Tourism, the DRT Show will run in the country for the first time on September 11 to 13 at the SM Megatrade Hall, Mandaluyong City.

The DRT Show Philippines is a ‘must visit' diving destination event as it features top-level exhibitors such as leading dive equipment manufacturers, water sport equipment manufacturers, dive resorts, national tourism organizations (NTOs), as well as marine conservation and diving organizations, providing the latest information, happenings and innovations that will appeal to anyone with a passion for the underwater world. The expo will also include travel trade activities such as a by-invitation-only business-to-business (B2B) meetings between foreign buyers and sellers, a Philippine underwater photo exhibit, plus a five-day post familiarization tour for buyers.

The DRT Show’s arrival to the country is much anticipated as it brings together diving enthusiasts, marine conservationists, dive industry stakeholders, international dive media as well as national tourism organization NTOs; which will greatly help heighten global awareness about the Philippines as one of Asia’s best diving destinations.

Across the Asia Pacific, DRT Shows have been met with an overwhelming response and are now considered highly important regional events promoting trading and export business. Each year, LX Development Group organizes 4 diving and resort exhibitions, generating a total of 600 exhibitors from 48 countries, and more than 50,000 registered visitors from 56 countries.

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Globe Telecom is continuing to invest aggressively in building on its capacities in a bid to future-proof its network amid continuing adoption of smartphone use among its customers.

“As more and more of our customers shift to a digital lifestyle, Globe is continuing to make data-driven capital investments to provide increased network capacities and enhance customer satisfaction. This will build capacities of our network to handle the explosive growth of data traffic of our customers,” Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu, noting robust customer uptake in the first half of the year as Globe continues to be the network of choice for smartphone users.

Globe capital expenditure in the first half of the year stood at P11.4 billion, bulk of which were allocated for data-related projects that include investments for the company’s broadband network, capacities for wireless data, LTE, domestic and international transmission facilities. A significant portion of the company’s capex for the year were also allotted for its IT infrastructure as Globe continues to create platform for new products as well as to build on its IT transmission initiatives, said Cu.

“These investments are intended to provide our customers with holistic digital experience. We expect growth in smartphone use to continue and that presents a very good opportunity for us moving forward. Globe has committed itself out to building on its capacities to ensure that the data requirement of our customers continues to be served,” said Cu, noting that more than a third of Globe mobile customers are using smartphones.

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Lamudi, together with MyProperty.ph and Metrobank, recently sponsored a special movie screening of Transporter: Refueled for members of the media, which includes of course yours truly, WazzupPilipinas.com.

We were treated first to a sumptuous dinner at TGIFridays before the actual movie at myCinema Greenbelt 3 in Makati city.

As expected, the two head honchos of Lamudi and myProperty.ph were there (Lamudi Philippines managing director Jacqueline van den Ende and Myproperty.ph General Manager Henry Winter) to greet us and share their very fascinating stories before the start of the movie. Apparently, the invitation brought in lots of interested media people as myCinema was fully packed that some had to sit along the stairs since seating capacity were limited to only 50 people. However, the cinema house is "intimately" designed, it was not really uncomfortable especially when nibbling popcorns and sipping soda while enjoying the new Transporter movie.

I took a video of the speeches to be able to capture everything they've said. Using the new Prestigio 5508 smartphone to record the video so I could test the video recording capability of the new phone that I currently have for review. I intentionally used the phone for photos and videos to review its performance in the dimly lit myCinema movie house. I still have my trusted Sony mirrorless camera with me but I refrained in using it so I can really try out what the smartphone can do. Was I impressed?

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The San Beda Junior Marketing Association (SBJMA) is the duly recognized marketing professional student organization of San Beda College, College of Arts and Sciences. It aims to hone the marketing skills of Bedan Marketers by providing them learning opportunities and experiences through events, seminars, and competitions that will serve as their foundation to become competent business practitioners and leaders in the future.

SBJMA holds various events that will help marketing students to learn more about marketing concepts and trends like the Experia: General Membership Meeting Part 1 and 2 - a two day event happening on September 11 and 12, 2015 at San Beda College Mendiola and Greenfield District Central Park respectively. This event aims to promote knowledge and camaraderie between every marketing student in San Beda College.

EXPERIA is not just about fun and party but also a learning experience for Bedan Marketers! This is definitely taking things to a whole new level!

Expect that you will be acquiring useful knowledge from the brilliant and motivational speakers..

Mr. Lester Morales, the Executive Creative Director of Catalytx Advertising, Inc., Mr. Bradley Eric Geiser, the Managing Director of GeiserMaclang Marketing Communications, Inc., and Ms. Ellaine De Luna, copywriter of Media Magnet Innovations, Inc.

Part 1
Learn from eXperiential marketing experts as they share their strategies and compelling campaigns!

Part 2
eXperience eXhilarating surprises and electrifying performances from DJ Ron Poe, DJ Ace Ramos, and DJ Jason Dewey!

Don't miss this year's General Membership Meeting. This will absolutely be an exciting event for all the Bedan Marketers! See you there!

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Diving Resort Travel 2015 Holds Press Conference

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The organizers of Diving Resort Travel 2015 led by the LX Development Group and the Department of Tourism (DOT) earlier this afternoon held a press conference at the Function room B of the Megatrade Hall at SM Megamall today September 10, 2015.

Jason Chong of the LX Development Group and DOT Director Verna Buensuceso, along with professional photographers and diving enthusiasts Amanda Cotton, Lynn Funkhouser, Imran Ahmad, Jerome Kim, Mike Bartick, Richard Morris, Andrew Marriott and lone Filipino Scott "Gutsy" Tuason, shared their messages to the members of the media. They commonly expressed that the Philippines has truly top of the line diving spots filled with amazing marine life, and named a few from which Anilao stood as the most frequented followed by other dive sites like Malapascua and Tubbataha.

Lynn Funkhouser really likes diving in the Philippines. This is why she has been diving for 40 years and dived 260 islands in the country already, and has never had a bad dive.

Amanda Cotton, who has been diving in the Philippines for 10 years already, says our "reefs and oceans are magical and different from the other areas in the world," and that it's "off the charts" when compared with the other dives she has made in other countries.

Imran Ahmad agrees that it is more fun in the Philippines as he has been diving here for 15 years and he finds it "pristine, beautiful and a little bit more different" and that "it' not just about the diving, it's the people."

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Leading international hotel brand Dusit International has disclosed its intent to increase its presence in the Philippines, beginning with reaching out to the upscale, long-staying travel sector. The hotelier has further expressed plans to tap the strong MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) market in Asia.

“We are looking to grow in the other cities and destinations within the Philippines as we are positive about the country’s tourism outlook and potential. These new projects can leverage from our experience and established networks in the Philippines and in the region,” said Ryan Chen, Dusit International Director for Development Asia Pacific.

Focus on Davao

Currently, construction is underway for Dusit Thani Residences Davao. The first Dusit Thani Residences in Asia-Pacific, the 168-key full-service residences is scheduled for turnover in 2018.

According to Chen, Davao was chosen because of the positive economic growth in the region, which bodes well for the international hospitality industry. He further commended the company’s timely partnership with Filipino real estate developer Torre Lorenzo.

“We have found a quality partner in Torre Lorenzo as this company is both experienced with the local real estate market and is aligned with our vision for the Dusit brand in the Philippines,” Chen elaborated.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Start your week right with laughter as the BEST Stand-Up Comedy acts in the country is coming to Vu’s Sky Lounge!

This September, Vu’s Sky Lounge launches its new themed night - Comic Mondays with The Comedy Cartel - a veteran comedy group who has been performing all over the Philippines since 2007.

Next Monday (Sept. 14), Tim Tayag, one of the pioneers of point ot view stand-up comedy in the Philippines and one of Asia's Top Ten Stand-Up Comedians will take centerstage at Vu's Sky Lounge! Show starts at 9:30 PM! See you there!

Tickets are priced at Php 888.00 with a complimentary standard drink.

Vu’s Sky Lounge is the first sky bar in Ortigas, located at the 45th floor of Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas, Manila.

For inquiries or reservations, text 0922-8596144.
#comedycartelPH #Vu’sSkyLounge

Top Investment Opportunities In The Emerging Markets

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Do you want to live in paradise?

Ten acres in the Kenyan countryside, a rooftop lounge in the heart of Marrakech, or a beachside resort on the Tanzanian coast - the emerging markets are home to an abundance of exciting investment opportunities.

Global real estate portal Lamudi explores the most exciting commercial properties in the emerging markets, for those looking to take advantage of growing economies, improving infrastructures and developing real estate markets.

Star Light Hotel in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka
~ $ 1.3 million

Invest in a 14-roomed tourist hotel on Sri Lanka’s south coast and you will never be short of visitors. The Star Light Hotel offers a relaxing beach holiday with all the modern comforts any traveler would need. The property is fully-furnished, with a bar license, a large outdoor swimming pool, and approval from the Sri Lankan tourist board. Only eight kilometers from the historical city of Galle, this charming coastal hotel is filled with opportunity.

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In keeping with its tradition of celebrating literary excellence in the Philippines, the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (Palanca Awards) honored 57 Filipino literary artists at the 65th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Awards Ceremony held at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City, September 1.

This year’s batch of winners saw many first-time winners, coming from different localities within the Philippines and abroad, making literary history alongside veteran authors, some of which have already earned their place at the Hall of Fame like Edgardo Maranan and Peter Solis Nery. Also, two young women fictionists copped the Grand Prizes in the bi-annual Novel and Nobela categories.

Now on its 65th year, the most prestigious and longest-running literary contest accepted 895 entries in 22 categories, with the Novel and Nobela categories open this year. Entries for each category were evaluated by select panels of judges especially chosen for their contributions and excellence in their respective fields of literature.

The Palanca Awards was named in honor of businessman and philanthropist Don Carlos Palanca, Sr. It aims to develop Philippine Literature by providing incentives for writers to craft their most outstanding literary works as well as serve as a treasury of Philippine literary gems.

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Learning experience.

This was how Azkals coach Thomas Dooley assessed the defeat of the Philippine national football team against Uzbekistan Tuesday night in a 2018 World Cup qualifying game at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bocaue, Bulacan.

“We had a bad day, they (Uzbeks) had a good day,” Dooley said.

He said the defeat in the hands of the 76th ranked Uzbekistan is not a reason for the Azkals to feel down and give up.

“We need to go on and play. We don’t have to give up. We should be fine,” he added.

Dooley said they will analyze the game where they allowed the Uzbeks to score five goals, determine what went wrong “and then move forward.”

“There is something we have to learn and develop (after this defeat) and next we have to step up. We need to learn from this and take the lessons to the next game,” he pointed out.

The Azkals, now with two wins and one loss, will face North Korea in Pyongyang on Oct. 8. and Bahrain in Manama on Oct. 13.

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“Our new Rolls-Royce Dawn promises a striking, seductive encounter like no other Rolls-Royce to date, and begins a new age of open-top, super-luxury motoring. Dawn is a beautiful new motor car that offers the most uncompromised open-top motoring experience in the world. It will be the most social of super-luxury drophead motor cars for those who wish to bathe in the sunlight of the world’s most exclusive social hotspots.

Quite simply, it is the sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built.

The name ‘Dawn’ perfectly suggests the fresh opportunities that every new day holds – an awakening, an opening up of one’s senses and a burst of sunshine. In its tentative, inchoate, anticipatory state, dawn is the world coming to light from the ethereal dark of the night. The early-day chill of dawn provides an erotic tingle on the skin, awakening the senses and passions as the day begins.

Like Eleanor Thornton, thought by many to be the inspiration behind the Spirit of Ecstasy, the

Rolls-Royce Dawn will itself prove to be the muse that leads its owner to believe that at the start of the day, anything is possible.” - Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Lake Sebu: Cradle of Dreams Media Launch

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Department of Tourism - Regional Office XII recently organized a press launch of the Lake Sebu: Cradle of Dreams campaign held on September 5, 2015 during the Philippine Travel Mart event at SMX MOA complex in Pasay city which was running from September 4 to 6, 2015.

Photo above shows Ralph Layco- Marketing Consultant for Region 12 brand, Amor Maclang - Consultant and Marketing Strategist for South Cotabato, Regional Director Nelly Dillera, Shawn Agabe - South Cotabato Tourism officer and designer of T-boli accessories, Mayet Sy - Regional Tourism member and hotel owner, Michelle Solon - Regional Tourism President and wife of Governor.

Soccsksargen, now called shorter and friendlier as "Sox," and dubbed as the 12th paradise of the Philippines, offers adventures in culture, nature, and gastronomy. It already had two international events held this year of which are all firsts in the country, namely the Paragliding Accuracy World Cup and the International Folklore Festival.

DOT Region 12 has successfully participated in both Madrid Fusion Manila and Flavors of the Philippines last March and April respectively. It had a pavilion that is shared by the cities, municipalities and provinces of the region that showcased the different destinations such as river tubing in Maitum Sarangani, diving in Lemlunay resort, paragliding in Safi Ranch, cultural immersions in Lemlifew Cultural Village, Al jamelah Weaving Center, New Israel and the community of the moncados, a tour in Glan, GenSan Fishport, souvenirs of Kablon Farms, different trekking destinations of SIOK Falls in Koronadal City, Tawsuvan Falls, Asik asik curtain falls, a dip in the waters of hot and cold spring of Esperanza and Lake Agco pilgrimage in Lake Holon TBoli, Birds of Baras, Grand Mosquea nd brasswares in Cotabato City, and the muscovado processing plants of lambayong ultan Kudarat.

La Union Surfing Break Now on Its 10th Year

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At the 10th La Union Surfing Break presscon with DOT Region 1 Director Martin Valencia, La Union Tourism Officer Adamor Dagang, surfer and surf school owner Felimon "Lemon" Dines, the adorable Mutias of La Union namely Alessandra Casimiro, Angelica Maranan and Cassandra Ralbovsky, who won as Mutia Ti La Union, Mutia Ti Turismo, and Mutia Ti Kalikasan, respectively. and two more lovely ladies that I still have to verify the names (lol).

This was held on September 4, 2015 at Giligan's restaurant SM By The Bay Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay city. The actual event will be from October 28 to November 1 at San Juan, La Union.

La Unison Surfing Break is the flagship event of La Union that has continued to draw in crowds for years, and considered as one of the best tourism events geared on sports and wellness.

There will be a street dancing competition, surfboard design contest, surf clinics, sandcastle building contest, sundown fun run, Trick or Treat costume contest, Henna Tattoo design contest, and Face and Body painting contest.

A Fun Art exhibit by the Arts Guild of La Union (AsLAUN), Photography contest, Surfing competition, Zumba session, beach volleyball tournament, and beach party in the evening.

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From the all-girl band General Luna, Nicole Laurel Asensio is now ready to show her pure talent with the launch of her debut album called Schizoprano - a play of words combining schizophrenic and soprano. the album is produced by MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines)

Get to see what she showed us at her album launch on September 2, 2015 at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub at Century City Mall in our video coverage of all her performances, plus special video greetings from Nicole Laurel Asensio herself.

I uploaded the videos on our YouTube channel several days ago and has now compiled them for your viewing pleasure convenience.

The tracks performed that night included "Leader for a Day" which lyrics came from replies taken from Nicole's Facebook status "What would you do if you were leader for a day?"

Joining her as back-up singers are her mom Iwi Laurel, cousin ino Asensio Lopez and friend
William Kramer Jr..

Her dearest friend Franco Mabanta hosted the night. Of course, her beloved Ira Cara Cruz will always be there for musical direction.

Drums: Wilf Trinidad, Bass: Louie Talan, Guitar: Ira Cara Cruz, Keys: Kim Lopez, Sax: Michael Mark Guevarra, Trombone: Jose Aris Antinero , Trumpet: EJ Celestial, Lights: Macky Mangasi, Sound: Angelo M. Rozul

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In their bid to expedite the testing of the Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) prototype, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and MRT-3 project team will head to Dalian next week to meet with the German suppliers of traction systems, gearboxes, and brake systems.

“As we announced last June, static testing will be conducted from September to October. Meanwhile, dynamic testing was scheduled from November to December, when these parts will be delivered from Germany,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

“To fast-track the whole process, we met with officials from the German Embassy, Voith, and Knorr-Bremse a few weeks back regarding delivery schedules. Next week, our team will discuss the details with these suppliers, so we can explore ways to provide more trains to the public earlier than scheduled,” he explained.

Voith will manufacture the traction systems and gearboxes for the 48 brand new coaches of the MRT-3 line, while Knorr-Bremse is in charge of the brake systems. Both firms are established suppliers in the global rail industry.

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Ready your hearts as Ateneo Blue Repertory presents its 24th Season Premiere, BREAKUPS & BREAKDOWNS, an original Filipino musical with book and lyrics by Joel Trinidad and music by Rony Fortich. It is a story of an unexpected (re)meeting of four people that leads to hilarity and a gratuitous amount of awkward moments, as well as finding love, and losing it.

Mark, portrayed by Alex Masucol, is a young playwright about to put the finishing touches on his play about finding the One Perfect Girl. The play is a thinly-veiled retelling of his failed relationship with Nina, portrayed by alternates Celine Bengzon and Marga Crisostomo, who, unbeknownst to Mark, is starting to miss him just a little.

Raffy Nepomuceno is Derek, Mark’s roommate and best friend, who used to be a notorious playboy, an expert at The Game. But that was before he started dating Sandy, played by alternates Angela Mercado and Maria Velez, the girl who was able to hook Derek and keep him on his toes because of her apparent disinterest in commitment.

Find out how their stories will go as they discover all about love, heartache, second chances, what-ifs, and what it means to finally find that One Perfect Person who’s worth the commitment.

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Healthway Medical, the most trusted and preferred mall-based clinics in the Philippines, recently partnered with PhilCare, the country’s first Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) provider, to be the official online seller of HealthCheQ, the Healthway’s premium brand of executive checkup.

The partnership will make Healthway’s HealthCheQ available through PhilCare’s digital platforms, including its website and Facebook page.

“With the new joint venture, we will be able to make preventive healthcare more accessible to every Filipino,” said Carmie de Leon, vice president for sales and marketing of Healthway Medical. “PhilCare is one of the biggest and most reputable HMOs in the country and we are privileged to finally forge this partnership.”

According to de Leon, Healthway customers no longer have to wait in line to purchase HealthCheQ.

“For a hassle-free transaction, they can simply avail the package and set their appointment at the comforts of their home. We want to emphasize the importance of keeping a close eye to your health,” she said. “Our aim is to give the ease of access to good health which is also achieved by having enough sleep, eating right, exercising, and de-stressing (S.E.E.D.),” she added.

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DHL Global Forwarding Philippines, Inc. is delighted to announce the appointment of the company’s new Country Manager, Mr. Imran Shaikh, which took effect on 15 July 2015.

Imran has over 15 years of experience in international logistics, accounts management, freight forwarding and import and export operations. His first exposure to the logistics and transportation industry was when he worked as Ocean Export Supervisor with Expeditors International in Los Angeles, California. He oversaw gateway operations, directed all aspects of ocean export operations and provided support to sales, by actively helping in the acquisition and maintenance of business and client base.

From 2002 to 2006, he held the role of Import Manager at Exel DHL Global Logistics in Los Angeles, California, where he handled the largest and most challenging US freight management accounts, import operations for LAX branch and the control tower for North America. He was a member of the U21 global strategy team and was involved in the design and implementation of the west coast competency center procedures, the first in North America. The same model was subsequently launched and used in the Midwest and east coast operations in North America. Imran also had a working stint in DGF Singapore from 2006 – 2008 as Director for Strategic Accounts.

In 2008, he was appointed Managing Director, DGF Pakistan, where he successfully expanded their domestic operations and achieved outstanding business results. Imran is a certified Global Logistics Specialist who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from the California State University.

Please join us in congratulating Imran and wishing him every success in his new role. DGF Philippines also like to express gratitude to Stephen Ly for his leadership and guidance as Country Manager, DGF Philippines over the last few years.

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Globe Telecom remains the dominant player in the country’s mobile postpaid segment after posting postpaid revenues of P15.8 billion during the first half of the year on the back of its innovative myLifestyle Plan which set a global standard in postpaid plan offerings.

The phenomenal growth in revenues gave Globe the upper-hand in terms of revenue market share, a global metric used in determining market leadership across telcos worldwide.

Postpaid customer base likewise grew by 12% to 2.3 million in the same period from 2.1 million in the previous year. These positive gains are derived from the success of the myLifestyle Plan that helped boost gross acquisitions to reach a new record-high of 477,608 for the first six months of the year, up 23% from last year. Year-to-date net incremental postpaid subscribers stood at 60,776, 14% higher than 2014 level.

With the myLifestyle Plan, customers get a base postpaid plan that already comes with built-in unlimited calls and texts to Globe and TM for only P499 monthly. With an additional P99, customers get data access and a free smartphone. Globe has also made available various lifestyle packs suited for their entertainment, social media or productivity needs. The more services they add on top of the base plan, the better the handset they can get.

Northpine Land Meets Increasing Demand For Horizontal Development In The South

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As the demand for horizontal developments outside of Metro Manila increases, one of the major players in the country’s real estate industry is focusing its efforts in the South.

For almost 20 years, NorthPine Land, Inc., (NLI) has been building quality yet affordable suburban communities in areas where there is a strong combination of accessibility and opportunity. NLI’s President Alan R. Cruz noted that the South, particularly the CALABARZON region, is one such area.

Mr. Cruz further stressed that, “In terms of accessibility, the South is an ideal place to raise a family, especially for professionals who work in cosmopolitan areas like Makati and Bonifacio Global City. This is why NorthPine Land made a firm commitment to change the landscape of the South to fit people’s lifestyle needs.”

Accessibility to Metro Manila will be further enhanced with the ongoing development of the Skyway extension and other infrastructure projects such as the Intermodal Transport System (ITS), the LRT 1 Cavite Extension and the LRT6 Project, among others.

These infrastructure projects are also expected to significantly decrease rush hour traffic in the near future, providing another reason why establishing a home in the South is such an appealing proposition.

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Office spaces are quickly becoming the next attractive investment in Metro Manila’s real estate. Data from Colliers International show that as of the last quarter of 2014, the Philippines’ office market boasts a stock of 6.99 million sqm worth of inventory, which will surge 36 percent to 9.52 million sqm by 2018.

Prices and rental rates of office spaces, especially in the metro’s key central business districts (CBD), are poised to increase over the next year, thanks to healthy demand and tight supply, while vacancy rate is expected to decrease further as more companies (BPOs, corporate offices, and small and medium-sized enterprises) open and expand, providing savvy investors another option to diversify their real estate portfolio.

However, just like any business venture, office rentals have potential pitfalls if one is not sufficiently informed. Global property portal Lamudi Philippines (www.lamudi.com.ph) lists down several steps to get started on renting out office real estate.

PH One Step Closer to Faster Internet Access

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Users will now be able to access government websites faster with the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the ICT Office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and telecommunications provider PLDT on Monday, September 7.

The MOA shall signal the tie up between the parties wherein PLDT, shall provide the DOST through the Advanced Science and Technology Institute, (ASTI) operator of PHOpenIX, the country’s first and only neutral Internet Exchange, fiber optic connectivity from PLDT’s Pasig City Vitro Data Center to ASTI; becoming PHOpenIX third Physical connection point, together with Globe’s MK1 in Makati and ASTI in Diliman.

Through the new link between PLDT and PHOpenIX, private networks hosted with PLDT can opt to connect and peer directly to PHOpenIX, allowing for faster access to content hosted on the Internet Exchange’s peered networks.

At the MOA signing, the ICT Office of the DOST also announced the designation of PHOpenIX as the official Government Internet Protocol Exchange (G/IPX) as specified in Administrative Order (AO) No. 39.

Internet exchanges (IX) allow for Internet data to be transmitted between users within a locality to take shorter route through an IX rather than taking a longer route outside the country. Most of the country’s providers are not peered through an IX, which is one of the reasons Internet access in the country is relatively slow compared to its neighboring countries where providers are peered through a neutral IX.

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Gumbo New Orleans Restaurant invites the whole family to celebrate this once a year tribute to our beloved elderly as we honor all lolos and lolas this Grandparents Day celebration happening from September 11-13.

Our awesome lolos and lolas will be treated to a complimentary serving of Seafood or Chicken Gumbo – one of the restaurant’s house specialties, which they will surely love, plus P250.00 gift voucher which thy can use on their next visit!

Likewise, the whole family will truly enjoy Gumbo’s mouth-watering and sumptuous dishes like Seafood Jambalaya, Bayou’s Stuffed Crabs, Shrimp Etouffe, Bourbon-Style Baby Back Ribs, Southern-Grilled Chicken Caesar, Cajun-Style Fried Chicken, Seafood Boil, Family Feast, etc.

Visit Gumbo at the 2nd Level Entertainment Hall, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay; 3rd Level Robinsons Manila Midtown; 2nd Level SM City The Block, North EDSA: Gateway Mall in Araneta Center, Cubao; Robinsons Magnolia; and at the 2nd Level Atrium Bldg. in SM Megamall. For reservations and inquiries, please call 5560238, 4420106, 6353015, 5671820, 4404632 and 5271925.

Discovery Announces 13 New Productions Out Of Asia Pacific

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Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific today announced 13 new local productions commissioned out of Asia Pacific for the network’s various brands including flagship Discovery Channel, leading travel and lifestyle channel TLC, and Discovery Kids. The shows are produced with local production companies and crews, and/or feature local talent, bringing a truly local flavour to programmes that are made for an international audience.

The slate of local productions further reinforces Discovery’s commitment to investing in content and creating compelling local programmes that give insight into the people, cultures, and history in the region - while deepening its connection with viewers.

Charmaine Kwan, Vice President of Programming, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, said, “We have been bringing the world stories from our region for more than 20 years now, ever since Discovery started operations in Asia Pacific. Our programmes are about celebrating human achievements and the wonders of the world, driven by curiosity. So we are very excited about these shows – from animation and sport to survival and lifestyle – all of which have their own appeal but with a distinctly local element.”

The latest topical special from Discovery Channel is SABAH EARTHQUAKE DECODED which examines the science behind the earthquake and the possibility of future occurrences, and tells the touching human stories of those affected. In the one-hour special, some of the children from Singapore’s Tanjong Katong Primary School recount their experience on the mountain – the first time they have spoken in such detail about the tragic day. The special is produced by Malaysia’s Matavia Reka.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Burgoo American Bar and Restaurant joins the whole world on an annual celebration to pay tribute to all the awesome grandparents. Burgoo is laying down the red carpet for grandparents on September 11-13 in anticipation of families celebrating this special occasion.

Awaits your lolo and lola at Burgoo are quality and sumptuous dishes such as Supreme Caesar Salad, Grilled Pork Chops, Seafood Linguini, Fish & Chips, Chicken Dianne, Supreme Pizza, Raspberry Cheesecake, among others. Moreover, Burgoo is treating them with a free hot bowl of Burgoo Stew – also perfect this cold rainy season, plus a surprise gift your grandparents couldn’t resist!

Visit Burgoo at T. Morato in Quezon City; Powerplant Mall in Rockwell Makati; The Podium in Ortigas; Gateway Mall in Araneta Center Cubao; Robinsons Galleria in Ortigas; SM City The Block in North EDSA; Mall of Asia in Pasay; SM City Marikina; SM Southmall in Alabang, The District in Cavite; 3rd level Terraces Mall in Fairview; and Starmall in Taguig. For reservations and inquiries, please call 9277424, 8381815, 6875254, 7263578, 9136112, 5560091 or 6336256.

Globe Telecom Brings World Class Artists, Performances to PH for a Wonderful Experience for Music-Loving Pinoys

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The country’s number 1 mobile brand and purveyor of the Filipino digital lifestyle Globe Telecom continues to make its presence felt in the music industry to reach out to music-loving Pinoys with its participation in the country’s biggest concerts, festivals, and music events.

Globe has successfully penetrated the music industry and took the music experience to a whole new level. With its partnership with top music streaming service Spotify, Globe conquered the online music space by giving customers access to over 30 million songs anytime, anywhere using an innovative and interactive platform.

Globe has also established itself as a consistent supporter of international music festivals and concerts. From Wanderland, Unleashed, KPOP Best of the Best, and KPOP BIG BANG, Globe continues to reach out to its young market and give them an unforgettable concert experience like no other as a true music advocate.

Over the next few months, Globe broadband brand Tattoo will conquer the Valkyrie Club and the Palace Pool Club in Bonifacio Global City for a series of music events headlined by top electronic dance music (EDM) DJs Alesso, Steve Aoki and Kaskade, including the much-anticipated Halloween Ball as the biggest costume and dance party of the year.

“As part of our commitment to enabling the Filipino digital lifestyle is our constant presence in engagements and activities that bring our customers closer to their interests, lifestyles, and passions, and one of which is music. With our participation in and support for the country’s biggest music festivals, concerts, and parties, we are able to reach out to our customers and give them exclusive privileges and offers that make their concert experience wonderful,” says Issa Cabreira, Senior Vice President for Consumer Mobile Marketing at Globe.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Professional underwater photographers/writers, underwater cinematographers, ocean advocates, technical divers, and marine biologists from nine countries are set to impart their professional experiences to Filipino dive enthusiasts, marine conservationists, and the general public at the Dive Resort Travel (DRT) Philippines Show to be held on 11-13 September 2015 at the 5th Floor of the Megatrade, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

With the theme “It’s more fun to dive in the Philippines,” the three-day travel fair will gather dive industry stakeholders in one venue, especially those from Asia and Oceania. Expected to participate in the event are at least 2,000 international dive exhibitors, dive enthusiasts, and marine conservationists.

A series of underwater photography and cinematography workshops, a marine conservation seminar, and a technical diving seminar will be conducted by international experts like Dr. Terry Gosliner of the California Academy of Sciences, Charlie Fasano, Mike Bartick, Amanda Cotton, and Andrew Marriott (US); Gunter Bernert (Germany); Yoshi Hirata (Japan); Enzo Chen (Taiwan); Jerome Kim (Korea); Imran Ahmad and Zulkarnain Ng (Singapore); Tim Ho (Malaysia). Also giving talks during the event are the country’s very own Scott “Gutsy” Tuason and Dr. Arnel “AA” Yaptinchay.

Some of these diving experts will share their diving experiences in the country through thematic sessions. Dr. Terry Gosliner will deliver a lecture on “The Philippines: The Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity” and “Marine Invertebrates of the Philippines”; Charlie Fasano will speak about “Anilao’s Underwater Fauna and their Roles to the Reef in Southern Mabini”; and Jerome Kim will deliver talks entitled ““Romblon: The New Macro Haven” and “Sogod Bay: The Hidden Treasures of Southern Leyte.”

Designation of PHOpenIX as G/IPX and MoA signing with PLDT

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Office and the Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), invited members of the media to attend a press briefing announcing the designation of the Philippine Open Internet Exchange (PHOPenIX) as the official Government Internet Protocol (IP) Exchange (G/IPX) as per Administrative Order No. 39.

Venue: DOST ICT Office Seminar Room
Date and Time: 7 September 2015, 8:30 A.M.

Also happening at the event is a Memorandum of Agreement Signing between the Philippine Long Distance and Telephone Company (PLDT) and ASTI as operator of the PHOpenIX wherein PLDT will become third physical connection point of PHOpenIX.

These two events will ensure that Internet traffic to and from Government Networks will be transmitted efficiently and securely in compliance with Administrative Order 39.

Speakers and Panelists at the press briefing are the following:

Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aguirre Aquino IV
Secretary Mario G. Montejo – DOST
Undersecretary Louis Napoleon C. Casambre - Executive Director DOST-ICT Office
Jovy Hernandez - 1st VP PLDT Alpha Enterprise Head
Denis F. Villorente – Deputy Executive Director DOST – ICT Office
Ramon Isberto - Public Affairs Group Head PLDT

Porsche Carrera Cup Asia coming to Sepang this Weekend!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The race for the 2015 Porsche Carrera Cup Asia overall and Class B championship titles remains wide open as the region’s premier sportscar championship resumes at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit this weekend, with the 28-strong fleet of Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (Type 991) racing cars set to dazzle under the tropical sun.

Leading the charge after winning six of the season’s 14 races is Kamlung Racing’s Chris van der Drift as he continues his astonishing Porsche racing debut, having won the last six consecutive races. However, keeping his eye firmly on the prize is fellow New Zealander Craig Baird of Clearwater Racing who is just 15 points behind.

Key facts:

- Porsche Carrera Cup Asia is one of the leading one-make series championship in the region. It is one of the 8 Carrera Cups championships existing worldwide
(http://www.porsche.com/international/motorsportandevents/motorsport/customerracing/racing/carreracupsworldwide/)

- Strong fleet of Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars all running with MICHELIN tyres with many teams involved in the Asia championship

- The Championship has been a testing ground for some rising talents such as Earl Bamber, 2015 Le Mans 24 Hours winner, who won the championship in 2013 and 2014.

- For 2015 season, 8 rounds already took place over 5 weekends (including test days). Still 6 rounds to go before end of the season with the next two rounds (Rounds 9 and 10) taking place this weekend in Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia.

More information: http://www.carreracupasia.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/CarreraCupAsia

Moment of Truth for Philippine Azkals

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippine Azkals’ caliber will finally be put to the test when they faced a highly-favored Uzbekistan at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bocaue, Bulacan.

After winning their first two World Cup qualifying matches against Bahrain and Yemen and a tune-up game with Maldives last week, the Azkals are going into the competition with momentum and confidence on their side.

Uzbekistan, on the other hand, got a shocker when it lost its first match against North Korea in June but came back to overcome Yemen, 1-0, last September 4 in Tashkent.

Both Azkals coach Thomas Dooley and team manager Dan Palami refused to give a prediction except to say the Philippine national football team will give a good fight against the Uzbeks, who are ranked 76th in the FIFA rankings. The Azkals are ranked 125th.

“We are cautiously optimistic,” Palami has declared, while Dooley said “we have a great team that is playing good football.” This is the first time the Philippine Azkals will be playing the Uzbeks.

Uzbekistan is considered a tough squad and one of the best teams in Asia along with football powerhouses Iran, South Korea, Japan, Australia, United Arab Emirates, and China.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Did you know that even how good you take care of yourself, you are still susceptible to develop warts? Warts are caused by a certain strain of human papillomavirus (HPV) and anyone can get warts. Even children and teens can get warts. Although warts in children disappear after some time, some can thrive up to their adult years. And if the wart is located on the face or other visible areas, it can cause embarrassment and inadvertently lowers a person’s self esteem.

“If you have a weakened immune system, you are more susceptible to develop warts,” adds Richard B. Dela Cruz, President of RCC Amazing Touch International, Inc. (RCCAT). According to him, warts are contagious that it can spread from one person to the other through touch or skin contact. He explains that warts can even spread by the mere use of towels that are exposed to warts.

He further explains that touching a door handle infected with HPV can also spread warts. A cut or a scrape can even become an entry point for HPV that causes warts. “Every person develops warts many times in their lifetime. So even though you have removed warts now, it doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t in the next few months or years.”

Although warts commonly found in the body are harmless, warts found in the genitalia are a different story. Accordingly, genital warts should be treated as soon as possible since it can spread and grow in large numbers. It is also a common viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) so it is contagious and it can infect another person.

Another reason why people with genital warts should worry is that HPV can cause cancers, specifically cervical and anal cancers. “The presence of warts on the genitalia means that a person was exposed to HPV, and medical researches tell us that HPV poses risks that can develop cancers,” Dela Cruz warns.